For some people, autumn is an excellent time of year. It means it's time for pumpkin spice lattes, apple crumbles, and other treats.

For homeowners, on the other hand, fall season means spending countless hours removing leaves from their lawn. But what's more problematic than foliage all over the grass, are the leaves that fall into their gutter system.

Foliage and other forms of debris can block gutters, which can then cause significant issues with the home's foundation, including major water damage that can cost thousands of dollars to repair. One way to keep gutters from getting clogged is to clean them often. But it's neither safe nor convenient to climb on your roof every week.

A gutter protection system can be an efficient way to keep your gutters clean and prevent them from getting clogged all year round.

If you would like to know more about how gutter protection works, the different models available, and how to find affordable options, keep on reading.

Does Gutter Protection Actually Work?

Yes, it works, and it can be very effective.

While Installing gutter guardswill not totally eliminate the maintenance of cleaning your gutters, it will still significantly decrease the number of times you will have to do so.

Homeowners who use this system report that they only clean it once or twice a year, as opposed to every two weeks. This saves their time, money and above all, minimizes their chances of getting hurt.

Different Types of Gutter Guards:

Gutter protection systems come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Let's take a closer look at some of the most popular models on the market:

Micro Mesh Guards:

Micromesh is the most common type of gutter protection. This kind of guards is made of stainless steel and can be very durable. Micro Mesh models contain tiny holes that draw water in and block any type of debris.

Screen Gutter Guards:

Screen guards are considered to be the most affordable option for gutter protection. Another great advantage of screen protection is that it does not require retrofitting, because the screens are simply placed on top of your current gutters.

Foam Gutter Guards:

Foam gutter guards use a specialized foam that fits directly inside the gutters. Although they are the easiest to install, it is not always the most efficient option. Excess debris can cause blocks and prevent water from passing through, increasing the chances of possible water damage.

Brush Gutter Protection:

Brush gutter protection consists of huge bristle brushes that are installed into the gutters. One downside of this system, however, is that depending on the type of debris, it will still pass through the protection. To remove it, you will have to take out all the gutter guards and get them cleaned. So if your roof gathers a lot of small waste, a brush gutter system might not be the best option.

Reverse Curve Gutter Guards:

Like screen protection, reverse-curve gutter guards are durable and efficient. In this model, the guards are placed over gutters to let debris roll off and water pass through.

How To Find Affordable Options:

On average, gutter guards cost 900 dollars, but their price can be as high as 2,000 dollars with installation fees and tax. Even though gutter protection can be pricey, you can save significantly by adopting the following strategies:

• Do your research. The more you know and understand about gutter guards, the more leverage you will have to negotiate a better price.
• Browse extensively. Whether it is online or in person, get quotes from multiple different stores; you will eventually find one that fits your needs and budget.
• Install them yourself. Gutter guard installation can easily cost up to 1,000 dollars, depending on the model. So if you feel comfortable installing them yourself, that can help you save a lot of money.

How Do I Install a Gutter Protection System?

Installing a gutter protection system is a simple process that can be done in a few hours, depending on the model. Here are some things to keep in mind as you are installing your gutter protection system:

1) Clean and test your current gutters

Make sure they are well cleaned and free of leaves. Also, make sure they are working appropriately; otherwise, the gutter protections will not be able to prevent any damage.

2) Measure gutters

Ensure that you have the correct measurements before installing your protection. If you get more gutters than necessary, you can cut them down, but it can complicate the process if you do not have the appropriate tools or skills to do so.

3) Take safety precautions

Here are some measures you can take to ensure you are installing gutter protection safely:

• If you are using a ladder, have someone hold it for you. Ladder falls can be deadly, so taking these safety precautions can save your life.
• If you can, use a protection helmet so that you are safe in case anything falls on your head.
• Take your time; rushing can lead not only to a malfunctioning gutter guard but it can increase the chances of you getting hurt.

All in All:

Water damage is a grave issue that can lead to roof leaks, foundation damage, and costly repairs. But, with a sound gutter protection system, you can rest assured knowing your home will be safe and free of water damage.